FAQs about Commencement

• Please dress appropriately and respectfully for commencement. No specific color shoes are required. Do not wear decorations or jewelry on the outside of your gown.
• We encourage students to wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing.
• If the ceremony is held outdoors, dress appropriately for the temperature and weather conditions.
• Graduates and guests at the 2021 commencement ceremony are responsible for following campus COVID-19 safety guidelines, including adherence to the mask policy.

The commencement ceremony typically lasts approximately one and a half to two hours. Total ceremony time may vary.

• May graduates will not receive their diplomas during the Commencement Ceremony.
• August and December graduates will receive their diplomas approximately one month after classes are complete.
• Diplomas are only issued when you have completed all degree requirements and paid all balances due.

FOR MORE DIPLOMA INFORMATION
FOR MORE DIPLOMA INFORMATION DO GRADUATES

The tassel hangs over the right front corner then is moved to the left after the degree is conferred.

Graduates must arrive 30 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony.

For the 10 a.m. ceremony, graduates should arrive by 9:30 a.m. to the main quad (center of campus, near the fountain).

If the inclement weather plan is used, graduates for the 10 a.m. ceremony should arrive by 9:30 a.m. to the Dining Commons and graduates for the 3 p.m. ceremony should arrive by 2:30 p.m. to the Dining Commons.

Put on all regalia (cap, gown, etc.) prior to arriving at the line-up site and make sure you know your number for line-up before arriving.

Refer to the Commencement Participation Information page for details.

The commencement venue will open to guests 1 hour before the ceremony start time. Venue doors will close 15 minutes prior to the ceremony start time. Guests who arrive less than 15 minutes before the ceremony start time will not be able to enter the venue and will be directed to the Alumni Hall Family Room to view the livestream.

Seating is available on a first come, first served basis. Guests with mobility needs should inform a volunteer when they enter the venue so they can be directed to accessible seating.

We respectfully request that all family members and guests go directly to the venue so that staff can assist graduates with line-up.

COMMENCEMENT REGALIA RETURN INFORMATION